The Ultimate List of final 2015 performances of Branson’s incredible live shows

Don't miss the final 2015 performances of these and other great Branson shows.

Don’t miss the final 2015 performances of these and other great Branson shows.

“Although many of Branson’s most popular shows will be open through Christmas Week, a number of shows will be closing before Christmas, with some as early as December 5,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Here’s a list of when most Branson’s shows will be performing their last 2015 show, along with a link to their schedule, other show details, and pricing information, sorted by the date of their last scheduled performance,” she added.

December 5

The Lettermen
Buck Trent
8 O’Clock Rock
Bee Gees and Beyond
Bon Jovi Tribute
Craig Wayne Boyd
George Jones and Friends Remembered
Good Ol Boys
Patsy Cline Remembered

December 6

Boot Daddy Presents Gene Watson
Red, Hot & Blue

December 8

Linda Rondstadt and Jackson Browne Tribute Show

December 9

Shoji Tabuchi
Duttons
George Dyer
Pure Comedy Feud

 December 10

New South Gospel
Mel Tillis & The Statesiders
Barbara Fairchild Dinner Show
Carpenters Once More
George Strait Country starring James Garrett

December 11

Down Home Country
A Neil Diamond Tribute
Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute Show
Doowop Pop and Soul Tribute Show

December 12

Andy Williams Christmas Show
#1 Hits of the 60’s & 50’s too
70’s Music Celebration Starring Barry Williams
A Tribute to John Denver
Bretts
Eagles Tribute Concert
Hank Williams Revisited
Jonah Behind The Scenes Tour

December 13

Ozark Mountain Jubilee
Sunday Gospel Jubilee
Magnficent 7 Show

December 16

Wissmann Family Christmas

December 17

A Tribute to Marty Robbins
Comedy and Meatballs Dinner Show

December 18

Branson Country USA
Dublin’s Irish Tenors and The Celtic Ladies
AYO starring Voices of Glory

December 19

Presleys’ Country Jubilee
SIX
The Sons of Britches

December 20

Christmas Wonderland
New Jersey Nights
Puttin’ on the Ritz

 December 25

Kelli Grant “The Queen of Swing”
Golden Sounds of The Platters with Eddie Stovall

Many of Branson's most popular shows will be open Christmas Week.

Many of Branson’s most popular shows will be open Christmas Week.

December 26

Doo Wop and the Chico Vega Drifters
Sanders Family Christmas
Smoke on the Mountain

December 27

The Petersen Family Bluegrass Band

 December 28

Clay Cooper’s Country Express
Wade Landry’s Gumbo Show

December 29

The Haygoods
Jonah

December 30

Billy Dean in Concert with Jarrett
Baldknobbers Jamboree

December 31

Acrobats of China
Amazing Pets
Comedy Jamboree
Grand Jubilee
Hughes Brothers Christmas Show
it starring the Hughes Brothers and their Families
Legends in Concert
Million Dollar Quartet
The BIG Show
Christmas on the Trail Chuckwagon Dinner Show
Clay-Goods Jambor-Eve
Comedy Hypnosis Dinner Show
Dixie Stampede
Doug Gabriel #1 Hits Tribute
Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety
Motown Downtown
Pierce Arrow
Showboat Branson Belle
The Twice Adopted Gospel Show

Click here for a list of Branson shows sorted alphabetically.

BTC’s Wood suggests advanced planning because of limited show seating, the scheduling of show performances during the Christmas season, and the fact that some Branson lodging facilities are closed. She said that an easy way to avoid problems, save time and, in many cases money, is by simply calling the Branson Tourism Center, toll free at 1-800-785-1550 and talking with one of their Branson based Travel Planners who will be delighted to assist in making any show or lodging reservations and answer any questions. There is no charge for this service.

How many of these amazing December 2015 Branson highlights would you like to see?

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“The highlight of December in Branson is Christmas,” said Annette Wood, the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “From its fun, excitement, and entertainment to the celebration of the real reason for the season, Christmas in Branson is special and unique,” she added. Wood points out that many of Branson’s most popular shows, and the majority of its attractions, shopping, and other activities, are open throughout the Christmas season.

Here’s our Featured Show, Limited Engagement, and Event of the Month, along with a list of the major events you can enjoy in Branson during December, 2015:

The Featured Show and Featured Limited Engagement of the month are the same – Sight & Sound’s biblical spectacular, Jonah. It’s one of the most phenomenal productions ever performed on a Branson stage, and will hold its last performance here on December 31. In a review of the show, I wrote, “It’s hard to imagine a show with a greater appeal and spectacle than Jonah as it brings to life, and illustrates, one of the greatest biblical stories of all time – the lesson one of God’s own prophets had to learn about His mercy and love for us, even as he tried to run from it. The magnificent and spectacular way the story comes to life is unlike anything that most people will ever see live on stage; a pure joy to experience, and something every member of the family will treasure and remember for a lifetime!” If you haven’t seen it, don’t miss it!

The Event of the Month is Christmas Week in Branson, the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. From Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas to Branson’s most talked about new show, the Million Dollar Quartet, and all the excitement, adventure, and shopping that Branson is noted for, topped off by a variety of New Year’s Eve celebrations, Christmas Week in Branson offers a unique experience unlike any other.

LIMITED ENGAGEMENT HIGHLIGHTS (Sorted by starting date.)

Dec 1 – 3                           Yakov – Wake Up with Yakov
Dec 1 – 2                           Jerusalem performed by Dudu Fisher
Dec 3 – 6                           Limited Engagement – Boot Daddy Presents Gene Watson
Dec 5                                 Moon River and Me
Dec 5                                 Craig Wayne Boyd

SPECIAL EVENT HIGHLIGHTS (Sorted by starting date.)

Dec 1 -Dec 27             Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights & Village
Dec 1 – Dec 30           An Old Time Christmas Festival at Silver Dollar City
Dec 1 – Dec 31            Christmas and Winter Celebration at Titanic Museum Attraction
Dec 1 – Dec 31            Branson Landing’s Winter Wonderlanding!
Dec 1 – Dec 31           7th Season of White Flight at The Butterfly Palace
Dec 1 – Dec 31            Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights
Dec 25                         Chateau on the Lake – Christmas Day Brunch
Dec 2 – Dec 3              Yuletide Feast – Keeter Center
Dec 6                           Carols on the Belle on the Showboat Branson Belle
Dec 6                           67th Annual Adoration Parade & Lighting Ceremony
Dec 13                         Tanger Club Ladies Night Out – Tanger Outlets
Dec 13                         Carols on the Belle on the Showboat Branson Belle
Dec 25 – Dec 31          Christmas Week in Branson
Dec 25                         Christmas Day Champagne Brunch at Chateau on the Lake
Dec 28 – Dec 31         Rock, Shop, and Recovery at Tanger Outlets
Dec 31                         New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dancing – Keeter Center
Dec 31                         New Years Eve Shows:

Clay-Goods Jambor-Eve
Doug Gabriel’s #1 Hits Tribute Show
Grand Jubilee
Hughes Brothers
Legends in Concert
Million Dollar Quartet
Pierce Arrow
Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety

Due to the possibility of inclement weather, seasonal show schedules, and the fact that some Branson lodging facilities are closed, Branson Tourism Center’s Wood suggests that an easy way to avoid problems is to make sure you have the most current information; you’ll save time and, in many cases, money, by simply calling the Branson Tourism Center toll-free at 1-800-785-1550. A Branson-based vacation planning specialist will be delighted to answer any questions, and assist you with show or lodging reservations. There is absolutely no charge for this service.

Five things you really need to know about having a fabulous Christmas Week in Branson!

Many of Branson's most popular shows will be open Christmas Week.

Many of Branson’s most popular shows will be open Christmas Week.

“Branson is famous for its live entertainment, attractions, shopping, fun, and other exciting activities,” said Annette Wood, the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Christmas Week, the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day, is filled with all the things that Branson is famous for…and then some,” she continued.

Here’s a list of five things you should know about spending Christmas Week in Branson:

1. Many Branson Shows are still performing: Although many of Branson’s shows are closed for the season, a number of its most popular shows are open during Christmas Week. This includes such shows as The Acrobats of China, Amazing Pets, Billy Dean in Concert with Jarrett Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Comedy Jamboree, Dixie Stampede, Grand Jubilee, Hamner’s Unbelievable Variety, The Haygoods, Sight and Sound’s spectacular Jonah, Hughes Brothers Christmas Show, Legends in Concert, Paul Harris and the Cleverlys, Pierce Arrow, the Showboat Branson Belle, and many more.

2. The vast majority of Branson Attractions are open: The vast majority of Branson’s attractions will be open. This includes its oldest and most popular paid attraction, the international award-winning Silver Dollar City presenting its “Old Time Christmas;” the Titanic Museum Attraction decked out for its beautiful “Christmas and Winter Celebration;” the unique White Flight exhibit at the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure; the National Tiger Sanctuary; Branson’s Promised Land Zoo, and others.

3. All major Branson Christmas lighting displays will still be aglow: All the major lighting displays including Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights, the giant 30 foot nativity scene on top of Mount Branson overlooking Lake Taneycomo, Branson Landing and Historic Downtown Branson, and the Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights & Village will continue throughout the week.

4. Shop ‘til you drop: – Branson’s shopping experience is legendary and Christmas Week is no exception. From the unique Branson Landing, with its 100 retail stores, to the shops of Historic Downtown Branson, featuring Dicks 5 & 10; from outlet centers such as Tanger Outlets and The Shoppes at Branson Meadows, to the dozens of specialty shops offering arts and crafts and one- of-a-kind items, Branson’s Christmas Week shopping will satisfy the most avid shopper.

151124 CoClayGoods 2015

5. New Year’s Eve Fun: In addition to New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dancing – Keeter Center, and other area celebrations welcoming in the New Year, the following shows will have special New Year’s Eve celebrations:

Big Cedar Resort’s New Years Eve Celebrations
Chateau on the Lake New Years Eve Celebration
Clay-Goods Jambor-Eve
Doug Gabriel’s #1 Hits Tribute Show
Grand Jubilee
Hughes Brothers
Legends in Concert
Million Dollar Quartet
Pierce Arrow
Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety

BTC’s Wood points out that the weather, Show schedules, and the fact that some Branson lodging facilities are closed should be considered when planning your trip. She suggests that an easy way to avoid problems, make sure you have the most current information, save time and, in many cases, money, is by simply calling the Branson Tourism Center toll-free at 1-800-785-1550, and talking with one of their Branson-based vacation planning specialists. They’ll be delighted to answer any questions and assist you with show or lodging reservations. There is absolutely no charge for this service.

America’s sweethearts share their amazing 60 year journey

The Lennon Sisters circa early years, Kathy, left, Dee Dee, back, Peggy, and Janet .

The Lennon Sisters, circa the early years, Kathy, left, Dee Dee, back, Peggy, and Janet, front .

In what might well have been one of the greatest Christmas entertainment gifts ever, Lawrence Welk introduced the four lovely and talented Lennon Sisters to America during his national TV show on Christmas Eve of 1955. America fell in love with them and now, 60 years later, ‘America’s Sweethearts’ are still entertaining, thrilling, and inspiring audiences with their one-of-a-kind vocal sound and personality.

Recently, between rehearsals for the Andy William Christmas Show at the Andy Williams Moon River Theatre in Branson, the Lennon Sisters (LS); Janet, Kathy, and Mimi, took time from their hectic schedules for an interview about their fabulous 60 year journey. The interview was conducted in a “Question and Answer” format for the Branson Tourism Center (BTC) by Gary Groman, a 29 year resident of the Branson area, local columnist and freelance entertainment writer:

BTC: How did you discover your remarkable singing talents as a group?
LS: We come from a family with a musical background. Our grandmothers were dancers, one of our grandfathers was a honky-tonk piano man, the other an Irish Tenor, and our father was a wonderful singer who sang with his brothers in a group called the “Lennon Brothers.” None of us read music, but we learned their harmonies by ear and sang around the house when we were little. It came to us naturally.

BTC: Where were you born and raised?
LS: We were born and reared in the beach town of Venice, CA.

BTC: How would you describe your childhood?
LS: Our whole family, my dad, his brother, over 30 cousins all lived in Venice. It was an amazing, wonderful, and loving childhood. It was great!

BTC: What was the original reason the Lennon Sisters started singing professionally in 1954?
LS: To help put an addition on our house. The whole family lived in a two bedroom-one bath house and mom and dad slept on a pull-out sofa in the living room. Daddy wanted to add a dormitory onto the house for the girls. We sang a church musical. People in the audience liked it and said they would pay us to come and sing for their organizations, and that’s what we did.

BTC: How many brothers and sisters did you have?
LS: There’s 11 of us, six girls and five boys.

BTC: What part did Larry Welk play in getting you the opportunity to appear on the Lawrence Welk Show?
LS: Dianne, Dee Dee, went to school with Larry Welk Jr. He asked her to go to a Halloween Party, but she said she couldn’t because she had to sing at the Elks Club. He went to the club to pick her up, heard them sing, and liked what he heard. He said that his dad had just started a TV show and that he was going to tell him about them.

BTC: What were the circumstances of your first meeting with Lawrence Welk?
LS: About a month later Larry called Dee Dee and told her to get her sisters together and come over to the house because his dad was home sick, couldn’t get out of the house, and that he wanted us to sing for his dad. When we got there, Lawrence Welk came out wearing a maroon smoking jacket and velvet slippers, sat down, turned to us, and said, “My son has told me all about you; now sing!” That’s how it started. It’s the only audition we have ever had.

BTC: When did you make your first TV appearance on the Lawrence Welk Show?
LS: On Christmas Eve of 1955.

BTC: Do you remember the name of the song you sang?
LS: “He.”

BTC: Which sisters made that appearance and how old were they?
LS: Dianne, 16, Peggy, 14, Kathy, 12, and Janet, 9.

BTC: When did Mimi join the group?
LS: Although she sang with us as a fill in for many years, she joined us permanently in 1999 when Peggy retired.

The 2015 Lennon Sisters Kathy left, Janet, and Mimi

The Lennon Sisters, circa 2015,  Kathy left, Janet, and Mimi

BTC: Except for the first performance, what was your most memorable moment while on the Lawrence Welk Show?
KATHY: The very first time Mr. Welk asked me to sing a solo. It was “Dark Moon.”
JANET: I loved dancing with Mr. Welk and singing duets.

BTC: When did you leave the Lawrence Welk Show?
LS: 1968.

BTC: Did you go to another TV show?
LS: Yes. We had our own national TV show, the “Jimmy Durante Presents the Lennon Sisters Hour.”

BTC: Did the appearance of the Lennon sisters on that show establish a new entertainment milestone?
LS: Yes. We were the first sister act to star in their own national TV variety show.

BTC: You have sold millions of recordings, but how many different songs have gone into those recordings?
S: Over 400.

BTC: Of all of those songs, which was your personal favorite:
KATHY: “Sophisticated Lady,” but I can’t wait to record “Love Story” which will be on our new album.
JANET: The Skeeter Davis hit, “The End of the World.”
MIMI: Our Rosemary Clooney Medley with “Hey There,” “Tenderly,” “Sisters,” and “Come On-A My House.”

BTC: Has a book been published about your remarkable career?
LS: Yes, we have an autobiography, “Same Song, Separate Voices.” It took us ten years to write and we wrote every word ourselves.

BTC: Over the years, you have received numerous awards and recognitions. Is their one that means the most?
LS: We are appreciative, grateful, and honored for all of the many awards we have received over the years, but being inducted into the “Vocal Group Hall of Fame” in 2001 and receiving a star on the “Hollywood Walk of Fame Star” has special significance.

BTC: In a career filled mostly with highs, have you traveled through any valleys that could have ended the journey?
LS: Like most families, it’s not all roses and mountain highs. Valleys have been encountered along the way. Our bio describes a painful valley that we traveled through and, but for the intercession of Andy Williams, might have been the end of our career. The bio says, “On August 12, 1969, their father, William (Bill) Lennon, was gunned down and murdered by a demented fan, who believed that the Lennons’ father had kept him from being married to one of the Sisters. This tragic event left their mother to support seven children under the age of eighteen. Wanting to protect their siblings, their mother, and their growing families, The Lennon Sisters decided to stop all personal appearances due to the fear of being vulnerable in the public eye. It was only Andy Williams’ persuasion and promise to take care of them that resulted in a careful choice to appear on live stage again.”

BTC: Prior to Branson, when did you first start performing with Andy Williams?
LS: In the 1960s and through the 70s on TV, Vegas, and Lake Tahoe.

BTC: What part did Larry Welk play in bringing the Lennons to Branson?
LS: We had never heard of Branson until we got a call from Larry Welk who said he was opening a theatre in Branson and asked if we would star in his show.

BTC: How did you end up in Branson?
LS: After Larry’s call, we called Andy Williams and others who were in Branson. They said that we belonged in Branson so we came, looked, and said, “Maybe we can do this for a year.” We are now celebrating our 22nd season in Branson.

BTC: How many Lennons moved to Branson originally?
LS: 35.

BTC: When did you start performing in Branson?
LS: In May of 1994 at the Welk Resort Theatre.

BTC: When was the first time you performed on the “Andy Williams Christmas” show prior to coming to Branson?
LS: In 1960.

BTC: When did you start performing at the Andy Williams Moon River Theatre?
LS: In 2011.

BTC: What was the name of the show?
LS: We did two different shows, “An Evening with the Lennon Sisters” and the “Lennon Sisters Christmas Show.” We performed our Christmas Show in the afternoon and performed in the “Andy Williams Christmas Show” in the evening. One of Andy’s last wishes was that the Osmond Brothers and Lennon Sisters would continue his legacy and perform his traditional Christmas show. We have been performing with the Osmonds in the “Andy Williams Christmas Show” for the last three years and just love working with them.

BTC: Whether in Branson or not, what was your favorite Christmas memory of performing with Andy Williams?
LS: In the early 70s Andy wanted us to perform in his Christmas show at Caesars in Lake Tahoe. We told him we never go out of town at Christmas unless we can take our families. It was worked out, and the whole family, including Grandma, went to Lake Tahoe to perform. Perry Como was doing his Christmas show right across the street at Harrah’s. At Christmas our whole family got together and went caroling to the houses of both Andy Williams and Perry Como. It was like the best thing ever!

Janet's favorite moment in this years Andy Williams Christmas Show.

Janet’s favorite part of this years Andy Williams Christmas Show.

BTC: What is your favorite part of this year’s “Andy Williams Christmas Show?”
KATHY: The “Ave Maria” and “Silent Night” medley.
JANET: I love working with my granddaughters. They are just so much fun.
MIMI: Singing the “Christmas Song” with the Osmonds.

BTC: As you complete the remarkable achievement of 60 years in show business, what is the one moment that has meant the most to you?
LS: It’s not just one moment. The simple joy of being able to work with each other over these last 60 years and the special bond that we have is priceless. So, too, is the humbling experience of knowing that our music not only entertains our fans but, in many cases, has impacted their lives in some special way.
LS: In terms of just one number, it would be singing “Close to You,” a capella with Andy Williams during some of our Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe appearances with him. We just sat around him on stools and sang. It was a little piece of heaven.

BTC: Anything else you would like our readers to know?
LS: We’re so appreciative of the fans who have supported us on this 60 year journey and hope people will come and see us perform, whether it’s in the Andy Williams Christmas Show in Branson, or one of the 10 to 15 dates a year outside of Branson. We think they will enjoy not only the wide variety of music we do, but the peaceful nostalgic journey back to a simpler time as viewed through the video flashbacks of our 60 year journey, and some of the amazing stars we have performed with. Whether two or 92, you will enjoy the show!

For additional information or tickets to see the Lennon Sister perform in the Andy Williams Christmas Show, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling 1-800-785-1550, or by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

An amazing White Christmas wings its way into Branson

Live "angel" sharing butterfly with family during "White Flight."

A special moment as a ‘Living Angel Statue,’ shares butterflies with family during “White Flight.”

“The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure‘s White Flight provides Branson with a unique ‘White Christmas,'” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center “Like Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas, Branson’s live Christmas Shows, and much more, it’s yet another unique Branson Attraction that makes Christmas in Branson so special,” she added.

Brittney Smith, the General Manager of the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure, said that one of the major features of White Flight is a unique exhibit consisting of thousands of white, green, and red butterflies. You will walk in a ‘rain forest’ amid thousands of fluttering butterflies, colorful red and white poinsettias, sparkling lights, and ‘living angel statues’ to the sounds of beautiful Christmas music. She adds that this is the seventh Christmas season for this special, limited engagement exhibit which runs through January 1, 2016.

The butterflies in White Flight are comprised of many different tropical species; with the most common being the ‘Paper Kite Butterfly,’ also referred to as the ‘Rice Paper Butterfly.’ As is the case with the most of the butterflies exhibited at the Butterfly Palace, they live out their average three week life span in a predator free environment. They arrive, via air express, from tropical rain forests in their chrysalis (cocoon) stage; after emerging, they’re released into the exhibit in the aviary.

Another amazing feature of White Flight is the beautiful and subtle performance of the centuries-old art form of ‘living statues’ in the form of ‘White Angels.’ The statues slowly, and barely perceptibly, coming to life as people approach while butterflies flutter around and alight on them. It might be just a subtle change in the position of a head or the extension of a hand, but it’s fascinating to watch as the living statues interact with the guests.

The aviary is decorated with a number of poinsettias and other flowers and highlighted by a large poinsettia Christmas tree, providing an excellent place for picture taking. The whole White Flight experience, from the thousands of White Butterflies to the living angel statues and beautiful music, is a unique experience for the whole family to enjoy.

Smith points out that White Flight is in addition to all the other activities offered by the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure for the enjoyment and entertainment of the whole family. Ongoing features of the attraction include a Living Rainforest Science Center, the Emerald Forest Mirror Maze, a Rainforest Theater, and the Banyan Tree Bungee Adventure.

For additional information or tickets for Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling 1-800-785-1550, or by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

There’s a lot more than turkey on the menu in Branson for Thanksgiving!

Silver Dollar City's Main Street aglow in Christmas lights celebrating of its "Old Time Christmas."

Silver Dollar City’s town square aglow in Christmas lights celebrating of its “Old Time Christmas.”

“Branson’s Thanksgiving menu offers a lot more than turkey,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “It’s filled with feasting, which may or may not include turkey, great live entertainment, excitement, Christmas lights, adventure, great shopping, and so much more,” she added.

“And speaking of feasting, visitors who spend Thanksgiving in Branson will have a cornucopia available of great places to eat,” Wood said. She points out that whether it’s non-traditional Thanksgiving fare, such as the Italian cuisine at Florentina’s Italian Ristorante; a more traditional Thanksgiving dinner at the Stage Door Restaurant, or a mouthwatering Thanksgiving buffet like that served at the Keeter Center, Branson diners will have a wonderful choice of Thanksgiving meals for every palette and budget.

Here’s a list of many of the Branson restaurants and buffets that will be open on Thanksgiving Day:

Chateau on the Lake Thanksgiving Day Brunch
Devil’s Pool Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet
Golden Corral Thanksgiving Day Buffet
Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks Thanksgiving Day Brunch
Plaza View Restaurant at the Grand Plaza
Osage Restaurant & Arnie’s Barn at Top of the Rock Thanksgiving Buffet
Shorty Smalls
Paradise Grill & Steakhouse
Wildwood Bistro at Radisson Hotel Branson Thanksgiving Brunch
Worman House

Stage Door Restaurant at Welk Resort

Baldknobbers Restaurant, 417-334-7202
Bob Evans, 417- 336-2023
Branson’s P’sghetti’s Restaurant & Attraction, 417-335-0690
Buckingham’s Restaurant, 417-337-7777
Cracker Barrel, 417-335-3003
Denny’s Restaurant, 417-339-3670
Fall Creek Steak House, 417-336-5060
Florentina’s Italian Ristorante, 417-337-9882
Grand Country Buffet, 417-335-2434
Great American Steak & Chicken House, 417-335-6699
I.H.O.P., 417-339-4467
Lonestar Steakhouse, 417- 336-5030
McFarlain’s Family Restaurant, 417-336-4680
Texas Land & Cattle, 417-337-8200
Shoney’s, 417-335-6855

How about some of that famous Branson live entertainment, either before or after a great Thanksgiving meal? Although some of Branson’s shows will not be performing on Thanksgiving Day, many of its most popular shows, including the Hughes Brothers Christmas Show, Million Dollar Quartet, Puttin’ on the Ritz, The Andy Williams Christmas Show and many more will be. Here’s a list of 17 of Branson’s Most Popular Shows that will be open Thanksgiving Day:

10:00 AM
Hughes Brothers Christmas Show
12:30 PM
Dixie Stampede
2:00 PM
Puttin’ on the Ritz
The Lettermen
3:00 PM
Acrobats of China
Amazing Pets
Legends in Concert
4:00 PM
Showboat Branson Belle
7:30 PM
Grand Jubilee
Shoji Tabuchi
The Haygoods
8:00 PM
Acrobats of China
Andy Williams Christmas Show
Duttons
Hamners’ Unbelievable Variety
Legends in Concert
Million Dollar Quartet
New Jersey Nights
Pierce Arrow

And that’s just some of the shows that will be open. (Click here for a more complete list.)

On Friday, November 27, those Branson shows closed on Thanksgiving Day will join those listed above as they resume their normal performance schedules for the remainder of the season. These include such popular shows as Billy Dean In Concert With Jarrett, Christmas Wonderland, Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Grand Jubilee, Jonah, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, SIX, The Texas Tenors, and many more.

Great food and Branson’s famed live shows isn’t all Branson has to offer Thanksgiving visitors; from golf to Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas, the Titanic Museum Attraction, Drive-thru Christmas Lighting displays, and more, most of Branson’s major attractions will be open on Thanksgiving Day. Here’s a list of 15 Branson Attractions scheduled to be open on Thanksgiving Day, along with a link to additional information, schedules, and pricing:

Silver Dollar City
Titanic Museum Attraction
Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights & Village
Trail of Lights
Branson Limousine Christmas Light Tour
The Track Family Fun Parks
Thousand Hills Golf
Branson Dinosaur Museum
Branson Limousine Wine and Shine Tour
Branson Hills Golf Club
Harold Bell Wright Museum
Shepherd Inspiration Tower
Veterans Memorial Museum
Vigilante Extreme ZipRider
World’s Largest Toy Museum

On Friday, November 27, those Branson Attractions not open on Thanksgiving Day will join those listed above and resume their normal operating schedules.

Chances are that Black Friday, and other shopping opportunities, will play a major part of Thanksgiving plans for many people throughout the entire Thanksgiving weekend. Branson’s major shopping areas, such as Branson Landing, historic downtown Branson, Grand Village Shops, Tanger Outlets, Branson Mill Craft Village, The Shoppes at Branson Meadows, and its more than 250 different boutiques, specialty shops, national chain stores, flea markets, craft malls, and famous-name outlet stores, will make it easy to find that long sought after item or unique gift. National chain stores in Branson will have the same Thanksgiving sale hours as elsewhere, and just about all Branson retailers and shops will be having Black Friday specials. Not surprisingly, the Friday after Thanksgiving is the busiest shopping day of the year in Branson.

For additional information on Thanksgiving in Branson, for information or tickets for any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-785-1550 or through its website www.Branson Tourism Center.com.

 

Experience why It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year at the Andy Williams Christmas Show

The Osmonds and Lennon Sisters opening the show, Jimmy, left, Cathy, Merrill, Janet, and Jay.

The Osmonds and Lennon Sisters opening the show, Jimmy, left, Kathy, Merrill, Janet,  Jay and Mimi.

I’ve just come from seeing the 2015 edition of the Andy Williams Christmas Show; all I can say is, “WOW!” It’s a spectacular, unique, and magical Christmas production that is as beautiful and inspiring as it is entertaining, exciting, and fun.

Recently, during separate interviews with Jimmy Osmond and the Lennon Sisters, they expressed what an honor it was to remember and honor Andy Williams by continuing his style of Christmas show. From the very first number, to the last, the show is a variety of music, dancing, color, magic, and more, moving from element to element as I eagerly awaited what was coming next.

The hallmark of an Andy Williams Christmas show is the combination of color, excitement, variety, fun, and the way various elements are woven together to simultaneously hold the interest of all ages throughout the entire show. From dancing reindeer and beautiful dancing, to the quick change artistry, magic and, of course, the amazing vocals of the Osmonds and Lennon Sisters, this show does just what the song implies; it leaves no doubt that It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

From the show’s opening number to its final number, the Osmonds and Lennon Sisters sing a variety of Christmas and other music as only they can. The distinctive style of each group has been entertaining audiences for decades and is wonderful, but when they join together in numbers like “The Christmas Song,” their two different familial voices combine into a special Christmas experience that is a joy to hear and experience.

Many of their numbers are mini productions involving dancers, special effects, and more. During one such number, the audience was surprised and delighted when the Lennon Sisters were joined by three of Janet’s talented granddaughters who danced and sang with them.

Surround the wonderful vocals with the adagio dancing and quick change artistry of Pasha & Aliona, and the magic of Rick Thomas at strategic points throughout the show, and the result is like opening presents under the tree on Christmas morning. You don’t know what’s in the next package, but what a wonderful surprise it is when the package is opened and you discover what’s inside!

Kids and adults alike will be amazed at the magic and charisma of Rick Thomas. Although he performed other illusions, I must mention the “Air Adagio” illusion he performs with his lovely wife, Tara. To see her magically dancing in the air so gracefully high above the stage is as beautiful as it is amazing, not only from an illusion perspective, but from an appreciation for her grace and the skill of the dancing itself. It will leave you wondering, “how do they do that?”

Well you might not know how he did it when you walk out of the show, but you will know two things for certain; that you just had a wonderful entertainment experience, and that It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

 For additional information or tickets for the Andy Williams Christmas Show, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling 1-800-785-1550, or by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Five ways to have an exciting shopping adventure in Historic Downtown Branson

Dick's 5 & 10 in hisotirc downtown Branson provides one of the most unique shopping "adventures" available anywhere.

Dick’s 5 & 10 in historic downtown Branson provides one of the most unique shopping “adventures” available anywhere.

“Branson is known for the quality and variety of its live shows, attractions and other exciting activities,” said Annette Wood, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “In addition, it’s a fabulous shopping destination offering an unparalleled shopping adventure at its hundreds of different national chain stores, boutiques, flea markets, craft malls, famous-name outlet stores, and specialty shops,” she added.

Wood points out that there’s one often overlooked shopping opportunity; one that virtually hundreds pass through on their way to Branson Landing every day…historic downtown Branson …it has dozens of unique and exciting shopping opportunities offering gifts, art, and crafts that are available only downtown. From among many, here’s a list of five that illustrate this point:

1. Dick’s 5 & 10, 417.334.2410, one of Branson’s most popular shopping attractions, illustrates the uniqueness and excitement that shopping in historic downtown Branson offers. Steve Hartley, the son of the store’s original founders, Dick and June Hartley, points out that it’s not just the number of items they have in the nostalgic “5 & 10,” over 175,000, or their low prices; it’s the breadth of their selection that makes the shopping experience in Dick’s so unique. He said, “In candy alone, we have one of, if not the, largest selections in Branson. We specialize in old-time and hard to find candies such as Rocky Road, Big Hunk Candy Bars, and Abba-Zaba. In addition, we feature novelty candies such as Wax Lips and Nickle Nips, and a full selection of regular candy.”

2. Crain Creations Gallery, features the work T. (Thomas) Morgan Crain, Branson’s preeminent wildlife, bird, western, outdoor and nostalgia artist. He can be found, and viewed while painting, most Mondays through Saturdays in his downtown studio, located just inside the window of the gallery. The gallery and studio are as warm, comfortable, and inviting as the artist and his wife, Susan.

3. The Burlington Annex, 417.335.4789, features artist and gift lines that are unique and not available anywhere else in Branson. Its wide selection of unique gifts, glassware and jewelry, coupled with the expertise, friendliness, and helpfulness of their employees make shopping at the Burlington Annex a special shopping experience only available in downtown Branson.

4. The Hollywood Studio Store & More, 417.243.7660, is yet another example of the unique and fun-filled shopping experience available in the historic downtown shopping district. Its selection of Hollywood collectibles, jewelry, gifts, art glass, wind chimes, and much more is as phenomenal and interesting as it is value priced.

5. The Copper Coin, 417.551.1208, is operated by Susan Abar, the author of “Against All Odds,” and her husband Ron. The shop sells many gifts, but its spirit is based on our National Motto, “In God We Trust,” and the shop features a line of custom jewelry and other gift items incorporating a single copper penny into their design, delivering that message in an exclusive and beautiful way.

 

5 things you need to know about Branson’s beautiful drive-thru Christmas Light displays

Just a few of the beautiful  Christmas light displays lighting up the Ozark Hills.

Just a few of the beautiful Christmas light displays you will experience.

From Silver Dollar City to Branson Landing and the top of Mount Branson, Branson will be aglow with the spirit and lights of Christmas on trees, poles, and displays during Ozark Mountain Christmas. Silver Dollar City’s Old Time Christmas is by far Branson’s biggest light display, with more than five million Christmas lights transforming the 1880’s styled theme park into a glittering Christmas wonderland.

Next, in terms of total lights and displays, as well as excitement and fun, would be the Drive-thru Christmas light displays. Here are five things you should know about Branson’s Drive-thru displays:

1. The two largest and most unique: Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights and Village and Trail of Lights are the biggest and most unique Branson Drive-thru displays, with each providing a totally different experience from the other.

2. Operation Schedule/Hours of operation: Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights and Village will be open from 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM, seven days a week from November 5 through December 27. The Trail of Lights will be open from 5:30 PM to Midnight, seven days a week from November 1 through December 31.

3. Trail of Lights Overview: Drive through the historic Shepherd of the Hills Homestead with Christmas light displays that run from touchingly subtle to elaborate and exciting, themes from traditional to contemporary, and employing brilliant lights, delightful animation, and your favorite holiday music. They include characters in different types of buildings…you can take a peek at the Christmas-time activities taking place inside; many animated scenes, and many magnificently lighted displays. Also included is a trip to the top of the 230 foot Inspiration Tower with it’s a sensational view of Branson all aglow with holiday cheer!

4. Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights and Village Overview: Your adventure starts with a leisurely drive through, a magical musical mile and a half of hundreds of thousands of glittering, glowing Christmas lights on amazing displays. This unique drive-thru offers options other than driving through in your own vehicle, such as two-seater scooters, or in a carriage or wagon pulled by a Clydesdale!

And the amazing holiday experience at Ozark Mountain Christmas Lights and Village isn’t over after you drive through; an incredible Christmas village awaits you at the end! Discover 6,000 square feet of holiday cheer that stimulates the senses…hear the Christmas music…see the beautiful decor…smell the delicious aromas…taste the tantalizing treats like gourmet hot chocolate or hot cider, freshly made kettle corn and Bavarian nuts, and other tempting sweets and treats.”

In addition, the village has several complimentary features, like Selfies with Santa, occasional storytelling sessions with Branson historian, author, and storyteller extraordinaire, Bud Lynn; and a stunning, life-sized animated nativity to remind us all of the true reason for this glorious season. And, for a few belly laughs, check out the cacklin’ animated chickens that sing Christmas songs! Other activities available include family photos taken by a professional photographer, and the North Pole Express, a train ride that kids and adults can enjoy together!

5. Branson Christmas Shows and Drive-thru Christmas displays: The hours of operation of the drive-thru displays allow plenty of time to see one of Branson’s Great Christmas shows, whether you go to the show before or after; what better way to experience Christmas in Branson than by combining both!

For additional information on Branson’s drive-thru Christmas light displays or shows or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services by calling 1-800-785-1550, or by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Branson Up Close and Personal with Dana Parker, the 5th member of the Million Dollar Quartet!

Dana Parker as Dyanne, with Elvis, Tyler K. Hunter, in scene from the  "Million Dollar Quartet."

Dana Parker as Dyanne, with Elvis, Tyler K. Hunter, in scene from the “Million Dollar Quartet.”

Branson’s newest hit show, Million Dollar Quartet, brings a legendary night to the Branson stage in a show that combines music everyone already knows with a great story, creating a one of a kind entertainment experience. It’s based on one of the greatest jam sessions in rock n’ roll history; an impromptu gathering of four young recording legends-to-be: Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis, that took place on December 4, 1956 in the Memphis storefront recording studio of Sun Records.

With the four, soon to be stars, that night was a young Las Vegas dancer who accompanied Elvis Presley. Dana Parker, as Dyanne in the Million Dollar Quartet, does a great job of not only representing that girl, but of interacting with the four musical icons and Sam Phillips, both musically and dramatically, adding a special dynamic to the other elements that make this show a not-to-be-missed Branson experience.

“Branson – Up Close and Personal” is a service of Branson Tourism Center, one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services, and is intended to provide readers with an up close and personal look at a Branson star or personality. The interview with Dana Parker (DP) uses a “Question and Answer” format, and was conducted for Branson Tourism Center (BTC) by Gary Groman, a 29 year resident of the Branson area, and a local columnist and freelance writer.

BTC Just for fun opener: If you were marooned on a desert island, what three things would you hope you had?
DP: Something to listen to music, my yoga mat and, right now, a book by Kent Huruf.

BTC: Where were you born?
DP: Deerfield, IL.

BTC: When?
DP: August 26, 1990.

BTC: Any comments about your childhood that you think would be of interest to our readers?
DP: I had a really blessed childhood with two wonderful parents and two older brothers. I feel very lucky to have the childhood that I had.

BTC: When did you realize that you wanted to be an actor professionally?
DP: When I was about six years old, I did a play in the basement of a church, and I really fell in love with the art of storytelling. The name of the play was “The Reluctant Dragon,” and I played the part of Jennifer.

BTC: When did you become interested in music?
DP: In the third grade, I had a solo. It was a random song that the teacher had written, but when I sang it, my mom said, “You can sing,” and things just naturally progressed from there.

BTC: Do you have any formal training in theatre or acting?
DP: Yes. I graduated from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, with a BFA in Acting.

BTC: What type of roles do you enjoy performing the most?
DP: I enjoy roles that take me outside of myself and force me to take on characteristics and qualities that do not manifest themselves every day in my daily life.

BTC: Have you ever been to Branson before you started rehearsal for MDQ?
DP: Never. I had never even heard of Branson, but I am so glad that I did, because it’s an awesome place.

BTC: What do you like best about Branson?
DP: I love the nature and how beautiful the Ozarks are with its lakes, trails, and mountains.

BTC: What is your favorite thing to do in Branson when you are not involved with MDQ?
DP: Hiking and I have found an amazing yoga studio, Kom Hot Yoga, which I try to go to every day.

BTC: Have you seen any Branson shows? If “Yes” which ones?
DP: Yes, I have been to see the noon show at the Showboat Branson Belle, Clay Cooper’s Country Express, and Legends in Concert…twice.

BTC: When did you first hear about the musical Million Dollar Quartet (MDQ)?
DP: When it first started in Chicago a number of years ago.

BTC: Where did you audition for the Million Dollar Quartet?
DP: Chicago.

BTC: What made you decide to audition for the part of Dyanne in MDQ?
DP: I do a lot of musical theatre and have a singing background. As I researched the show prior to the audition, I fell in love with the story and the songs Dyanne sings in the show; “Fever” and “I Hear You Knocking.”

BTC: They used the real names of everyone else in the show. Why do you think that they used the name “Dyanne” instead of her real name, “Marilyn,” in the show?
DP: It’s theater; the character of Dyanne in the show is embellished for the show in terms of her involvement and participation with what actually went on at the jam session. As far as I know, Marilyn was a dancer and played no active role that night other than she was accompanying Elvis Presley. The rest of the roles, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Jay Perkins, Fluke, and Sam Phillips were actively involved in the events that transpired.

BTC: Did you do any research on the historical jam session, that is the basis for the show, prior to the audition or beginning of the rehearsal for the show?
DP: Yes. I try to get as much information as possible.

BTC: What did you know about Marilyn Evans (Knowles-Riehl) prior to deciding to audition for MDQ?
DP: There’s not a lot of information about her, but I knew that she was not a very serious girlfriend of Elvis, was a dancer not a singer, and that, unlike many others, she did not try to gain anything from her association with Elvis.

BTC: What is your favorite Elvis Presley song? Why?
DP: I Love “I Can’t Help Falling in Love With You.” I just love its melody.

BTC: What part do you like most about playing Dyanne in the Million Dollar Quartet? Although I love performing the songs I sing, I enjoy the jamming, singing, and dancing in the background.

BTC: What is your favorite part in the show?
DP: That would be “Party” with Elvis and Carl right after I sing “I Hear You Knocking.” It’s a fun jam song that I have so much fun doing.

BTC: Why should someone coming to Branson plan to see MDQ?
DP: Because it is a perfect combination of amazing music that people love and have grown up with, along with a really incredible story about a real event that a lot of people have never heard.

BTC” Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you or the show?
DP: The show has an amazing cast that is supported by an equally amazing and incredible crew behind the scenes. They take such good care of us and what they do contributes so much to the audience’s overall enjoyment of the show.

For additional information or tickets for the Million Dollar Quartet, or any of Branson’s shows and attractions, or for lodging arrangements, please contact the Branson Tourism Center by calling 1-800-785-1550, or by visiting www.BransonTourismCenter.com.